Why Perth Is the Capital of the Long Lunch

Brought to you by Hardy Brothers

A long lunch is all about indulgence: delicious food, free-flowing bubbles, great conversation and a chance to just let the afternoon slip by when there’s nowhere else you have to be. With Perth and its surrounding suburbs now offering some of the best dining experiences in Australia, here’s your guide to where to go next time you have a Sunday free.

Odyssea Beach Cafe

What better way to spend a summer day than overlooking the beach while you eat? Go for a dip then settle in at Odyssea and make your way through their modern Australian menu. Start with a Bellini and sample the share platters (from noon on weekends) before ordering mains and sides. There’s something for both meat eaters and vegetarians but when you’re this close to the water, squid, roast salmon or gnocchi with prawns have to be enjoyed. Finish with a decadent dessert and contemplate a second swim (half an hour after eating, of course).

187 Challenger Parade, City Beach; (08) 9385 7979

The Partisan

Enjoy a colourful meal inspired by southern Mediterranean dishes as you gaze over Claisebrook Cove. Lunch is served until 5.30pm so there’s plenty of time to enjoy The Partisan’s selection of tapas and sandwiches. Our pick? The larder board, featuring rabbit and rosemary terrine, chorizo, prosciutto, marinated olives, fetta, lentils, ciabatta and croutons. Plus, brunch is served all day so there’s no need to fret if you have a hankering for eggs at 2pm.

Shop 22/60 Royal Street, East Perth; (08) 6500 0165

The Trustee Bar & Bistro

Make your lunch even more luxurious with a visit to this bistro. Begin with a dozen oysters with red wine vinaigrette and move on to indulgent mains such as confit duck leg or pink snapper with a rocket and parmesan salad (or fries if you want to boost your carb intake). Still got room? Order the dessert degustation – five courses of something sweet – and spend the rest of the afternoon in a happy sugar coma. If you’re indulging in an extended lunch hour during the week, there are three lunch specials for $25.90 between noon and 4pm on weekdays.

133 St Georges Terrace, Perth; (08) 6323 3000

The Standard

Keep things casual by heading to this incredibly popular bar. You won’t find hot chips or schnitzels on this menu – instead, think charcuterie boards brimming with goodies, grilled octopus and smooth butterfish curry. You’re sure to find a bottle of wine to suit the entire table with the expansive wine list, though it’s hard to go past a crisp rosé on a sunny day in the garden. Open from 12pm on weekends.

28 Roe St, Northbridge; (08) 9228 1331

Barchetta

Another beachside venue, yes, but this one’s a little further down the coast and overlooks the iconic Cottesloe Beach. Watch boats sail past as you tuck into a classic beef burger or enjoy something with a Mediterranean influence, such as baked sardines with tomato sugo and bocconcini. Keep the entire family happy with a selection of wood-fired pizza or twirl your fork around some seafood spaghetti. You might even find yourself sticking around for dinner.

149 Marine Parade, North Cottesloe; (08) 9385 2411